Shanghai: President Lee Jae Myung announced on Wednesday that he has requested Chinese President Xi Jinping to assume the role of mediator in addressing the ongoing issues on the Korean Peninsula, with a particular focus on North Korea's nuclear weapons.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee made this statement during a luncheon with reporters in Shanghai, following a summit with President Xi in Beijing on Monday. This summit was part of Lee's current state visit to China. Lee emphasized the need for China to mediate, highlighting the complete breakdown of communication channels between North and South Korea, which has led to a situation characterized by "zero trust" and mutual hostility.

Lee recounted that President Xi acknowledged the efforts made so far and emphasized the importance of patience in addressing these complex issues. Lee agreed with President Xi's perspective, noting the historical context of military tensions and the need to understand North Korea's position to facilitate dialogue. He expressed optimism that China would actively work to mediate the situation following his request.